"Sergio Ramos is number one"

Sergio Ramos has become the hero of 'La Décima'. His goal against Atlético Madrid has gone down as a legendary 'Los Blancos' achievement, putting him alongside other greats like Mijatovic and Zidane, who stole the show in Amsterdam and Glasgow respectively. "It's the most important goal of my life. I can die happy now", said Ramos - who was the last player to leave the stadium and who received a show of adoration from his teammates.

Ramos, who has vowed to get a European Cup tattoo done on his calf, as he did of the World Cup, has put in a spectacular end of the season and established himself as the team leader, both on and off the field. He was their rock in defence and proved to be the cream of the attacking crop, scoring seven goals over the course of the final month of competition. Not surprising, therefore, that the coaching staff are thrilled with him.

"Sergio is the number one for Real - an amazing player. He's an example on and off the field and it's a privilege for all of us to be able to work with him", Ancelotti's second in command, Paul Clement, enthused. "His goal was one of the most exciting moments I've ever experienced. To score the equaliser in the 93rd minute of a Champions League final...it's a once-in-a-lifetime thing."

Florentino Pérez was brimming with pride for the vice-captain. It was not just the president and coaching staff who were over the moon with Sergio, however. His colleagues also praised him for his contribution to the team on and off the pitch. Casillas, Modric and Morata all showed their appreciation by giving him a special mention.